Almost 50 million Americans live with hearing loss. As our population ages, that number is expected to double by 2030.

But it’s not just a matter of old age. Nearly a fifth of all American teens have hearing loss. And 60 percent of our veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan experience hearing loss that makes them feel even more isolated and alone returning to civilian life.

Here are ten questions that will help you determine whether you (or a friend or family member) should have your hearing professionally tested by an audiologist or otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat specialist).

Do you have a problem hearing over the telephone?

Do you have trouble following the conversation when two or more people are talking at the same time?

Hearing Health Foundation and the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) have partnered on the “It’s a Noisy Planet/Protect Their Hearing” educational program to help you protect the hearing of your children.